Vegan Kung Pao Tofu
I combine crisp tofu cubes, bell peppers, and peanuts in a sweet and sticky sauce with just the right amount of heat when I make this vegan kung pao tofu. Everything bakes in the oven and comes together in just 45 minutes, making it great for weeknights and way better than takeout.
What you need
oz extra firm tofu, , cubed and pressed (see note)
tbsp tamari soy sauce
cup cornstarch
cup red bell pepper, , cut into pieces
cup green bell pepper, , cut into pieces
cup green onion, , sliced
garlic clove, , thinly sliced
dried chiles, , optional for spice (see note)
cup unsalted peanuts
sesame oil, , or use broth if oil free
cup vegetable broth
cup hoisin sauce, , see note
cup maple syrup
tbsp dry sherry, , or a dry white wine (see note)
tbsp balsamic vinegar
tsp ground ginger
tsp crushed red pepper, , reduce or omit for less spice
cup cooked rice, , can also mix in cauliflower rice for an extra veggie boost
Instructions
0 Preheat the oven to 450°F / 232°C. 1 Cut the tofu into pieces. You can do squares, rectangles, triangles, or anything else you prefer. Just make sure pieces are all around the same size so that baking time is equal. 2 Put the tofu in a large bowl and drizzle 2 tablespoons of the tamari/soy sauce over the top. Mix well. 3 Next, add ¼ cup cornstarch and mix again. It will get goupy but that’s ok. Some pieces may also fall apart a little if they are too big, so mix carefully. You can also do the tamari/soy sauce and cornstarch in a plastic bag and shake to mix. 4 Add to a baking dish (make sure it is high heat approved, you can also use a parchment lined baking sheet if you don’t have one). 5 Next mix the bell peppers, garlic, green onions and dried chilies (if using) with a drizzle of sesame oil (or broth if oil free) and add add to the baking dish. 6 Bake for about 20 minutes, until tofu is just browning. 7 Meanwhile, whisk all the sauce ingredients in a bowl until the cornstarch is mixed in. 8 When the tofu is done, add the sauce to the baking dish and mix around. 9 Bake for about 15 minutes, until sauce is thickening and bubbling. 10 Take out of the oven and mix in the peanuts. 11 Serve over rice and a sprinkle of green onion.View original recipe
